Tag Archive | "american legion"

LEFT: Retired Cedar Springs kindergarten teacher Cheryl Tacoma recently donated books and animals to help decorate the new children’s area at the library. Courtesy photo.

ABOVE: Julie Wheeler and Kurt Mabie, with the Community Building Development Team, are part of a group of volunteers that have been busy landscaping the area around the library this week to get ready for the grand opening. Courtesy photo.

May 13, 2-5 p.m.

The new Cedar Springs Community Library had a soft opening on Monday, May 8, and is gearing up for the grand opening this Saturday, May 13, from 2-5 p.m.

The Grand Opening festivities will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a flag raising ceremony by the American Legion Color Guard, Glen Hill Post 287. Other events to follow include speakers and ceremonial ribbon cutting. The library will open immediately after the ceremony until 5 p.m. Patrons can enjoy cookies and punch while exploring the facility, and have the opportunity to speak to local authors.

Harold L Stoner, age 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 27, 2017. Born on February 7, 1939, he was the son of the late Max and Dorothy (Dines) Stoner of Cedar Springs, where he resided most of his life. He was a talented tool & die maker starting out at Keeler Brass where he met, and later married, Karen (Homrich) Stoner. He retired from General Motors to dedicate more time to the important things in life: family, mushroom hunting, fishing, golfing and gardening. He was a member of the American Legion and Fraternal Order of Eagles. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 51 years, Karen; his children Traci (Stoner) & Chris Scherer, James Stoner and Robert Temple (and his grandpets Pinkie Lee & Goo). He was preceded in death by his brother & wife, Victor & Callie “Liz” Stoner. Celebration of Life services will be held at noon on May 5, 2017, at the Cedar Springs American Legion Hall, 91 South 1st St, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, with a luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Spectrum Health Hospice https://give.spectrumhealth.org/donation then search Designation for “Spectrum Health Hospice” or to the Grand Rapids Home for Veteran’s, 3000 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49505.

Saturday, April 15, marked the date of the second Community Building Development Team (CBDT) Grand Gala. The event, which packed the American Legion to capacity, was titled “Celebrating a Great Beginning.” Kurt Mabie and Nick Andres, CBDT board members, served as host speakers for the evening, presenting their personal and factual summary of the community’s new facilities and enhancements over the last couple years. The new Cedar Springs Community Library, scheduled to open its doors on Monday, May 8, with a Grand Opening Saturday, May 13, was at the top of the celebratory moments. A new library has been on the hearts of many for over 25 years.

Mabie read a note from Karen Andersen-Meier outlining how she may not live here now but her heart will always be in Cedar Springs. She also added she believed her parents in Heaven, Neils and Edna Andersen, both avid readers and users of the library, would be smiling from ear to ear. Mabie cited not only the Andersens, but many folks such as Mike and Alice Holton and Ronny Merlington, who aren’t here today but had faithfully worked for this new library.

“They and many others helped pave the way to bring about this library. Now it is our generation’s turn to keep things going for future generations to enjoy,” explained Mabie. “The library, additional park properties along Cedar Creek, a metal sculpture, walking bridge, and clock tower are just the beginning of some of the enhancements planned for the area now called The Heart of Cedar Springs.”

Andres pointed out $118,000 had been donated directly to the library by a long list of individuals, organizations, and businesses in just the past 18 months. This, in addition to over $650,000 previously raised by the library and the $1.14 million raised by the CBDT, allowed for the paid-in-full completion of the library. “This is a significant amount of money from a small community given for the purpose of enhanced public facilities,” explained Andres.

Mabie pointed out the significance of gaining a partnership with the North Country Trail (NCT) officials who agreed to reroute the trail through Cedar Springs and connect with Algoma Township. The North Country trail is the longest walking path in America. Cedar Springs will be working toward “Trail Town” status in the near future.

“The CBDT’s purpose has always been to support existing organizations and governmental entities in achieving their goals. It brings us all great joy to see folks working together within our community and helping each other make Cedar Springs an even better place to live, work, and play,” explained Mabie.

Many groups have become reenergized and are moving forward. The Downtown Development Authority is reviewing ways to enhance the downtown area, the Fire and Rescue Department has blueprints for a new facility, and the American Legion is working on a Veteran’s Memorial around the clock tower and/or at the existing Veteran’s Memorial area west of Main Street to mention only a few.

The CBDT’s Phase I still includes an amphitheatre, board walk, Veteran’s Memorial, additional walking bridge over the creek, and rain gardens/learning stations. Depending on funds that come available, it is hoped these projects can be completed by this fall. Phase II would focus on a Community Center with opportunities for community gatherings and celebrations for up to 500 people. Phase III includes a Community Recreation center and rustic campsite along the White Pine Trail. A three-year pledge card was distributed to gala attendees for those wishing to support the CBDT’s future projects. To date, almost $35,000 has been pledged.

The CBDT meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the new Community Library gathering room. More information is available on the CBDT website of CSCommunityCenter.org, Facebook page of Cedar Springs Community Building Development Team or contact Sue Wolfe 696.2246.

GARY & LOLLY GUST

Gary and Lolly Gust of Cedar Springs celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends at the American Legion on April 22, 2017. Their children are Jeff and Barb (Zerfas) Gust, Michelle Tackmann and grandchildren, Jason, Brooke, Jacob Gust and Isebelle Tackmann. Congratulations to 50 wonderful years!

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Craft & Vendor Show at Hillcrest Community Church

Apr. 29: On Saturday, April 29 the Hillcrest Community Church (5994 18 Mile Rd.) will be hosting the Spring Craft & Vendor Show from 9 am – 2 pm. It is an opportunity to experience a time when you can set aside the fast paced world and slow down, enjoy some coffee or tea, browse the craft tables, enjoy a relaxing lunch and visit with friends. Mother’s Day is coming soon and this is a great opportunity to shop for mom. We will have flowers, hanging baskets and ferns too. #17

Huge Adoption Fundraiser

Apr. 29: Rockford Reformed Church is hosting a HUGE Adoption Fundraiser Garage Sale for a local family in the Church Gym (4890 Eleven Mile Rd.) on Saturday, April 29th from 9 am to 2 pm. There will be a $5 bag sale beginning at 1 pm. Please join us for a great sale to support a great cause – tons of kids items, clothes, home décor, quality large furniture items and much more! #17p

Payton Christian in Cedar Springs

Apr. 30, May 1: Payton, an 18 year old actress/model/non-profit director/speaker, will share her testimony on Sunday, April 30 at North Kent Community Church, 1480 Indian Lakes Rd. NE, Sparta, MI 49345 at the 10 am service. At 5:30 pm Payton will speak to the youth at the community wide screening of “I’m Not Ashamed.” Monday, May 1 at 2:45 pm, Payton will speak to En Gedi Youth Center at Red Hawk School, 204 E. Muskegon St. Cedar Springs. For more information contact Pastor Craig Carter, Senior Pastor of North Kent Community Church, 616-550-6398. #17

Dinner at the Legion

May 1: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Baked Chicken dinner on Monday, May 1, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be baked chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, veggies, salad, roll, drink and dessert. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160. #17p

God’s Kitchen in Cedar Springs

May 2,9,16,23,30: Join us for dinner every Tuesday. God’s Kitchen – Cedar Springs welcomes families from Northern Kent County and the surrounding area to a Tuesday Evening Meal. No charge – no registration required! Served from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at the St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. For more information, call the Church office at 616-696-3904. #17

Parent and Child Yoga @ KDL

May 4: Amber Kilpatrick – founder of Mindful Vinyasa School of Yoga & creator of The Mindful Classrooms Project – will be hosting a special Parent & Child Yoga session, perfect for young children. Come learn about yoga and try a few poses. A story is included! The library has a limited number of yoga mats. First come, first served. Please bring your own if possible and join us! Thursday, May 4, 6:30 pm, at the Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave., Gowen. #17

Carnival Bingo

May 6: Come join the fund and help the North Kent Senior Citizens Association raise money to help pay for their furnace. We will have a baked good sale going on and chances to win gift baskets as well. So come check out the Senior Center, 44 N. Park, Cedar Springs, and have a great time playing bingo! Only 25 cents for 3 bingo cards per game to play. #17,18p

3rd Annual Kentucky Derby Party

May 6: Watch the Kentucky Derby, listen to music by Gordon Thayer Band, enjoy a Mint Julep, food, raffle, and silent auction. Pick your favorite horse. Saturday, May 6th from 4 to 12 midnight at Sparta Moose Lodge, 11510 North Division, Sparta. Benefit to support 2nd Chance School a school for troubled teens of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. Questions? Call 616-293-2150. #17,18p

Discover Small Museums

May 6,7: “Spring Into the Past” and discover the small museums of the Tri-River Historical Museum Network, including Cedar Springs Museum, Rockford Area Museum, Oakfield (Twp) Museum and Plainfield Township’s Hyser Rivers Museum in Belmont. These and 25 other member museums from Hastings to Edmore, Plainfield to Sunfield will be open from 11 am to 5 pm for your convenience. Pick up one at any member museum. Ask about the new Tri-River Quilt Trail too. #17

Pierson School Reunion

May 13: The Pierson School Reunion will be held on Saturday, May 13th from 9 am to 12 noon at Pierson Bible Church, 101 Grand St., Pierson. Contact Dick Pierce or Francine Sherman, 616-550-4547. #17

Christian Women’s Retreat

May 13: The Carousel of Life – Strategies for Navigating Today’s World. Speaker – Leslie Anne Wood, Transforming Faith Ministries. Do you feel like you’re on a carousel? Life is spinning round and round and first you’re up and then you’re down. The music plays louder and louder. Let me off! But we can’t get off; we must learn how to ride the colored horses of life. We can do this with faith and perseverance and God’s help. Saturday, May 13, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Settlement Lutheran Church (1031 S. Johnson Rd., Gowen). Cost is $5 and includes registration, wake up coffee, snacks, and a light, healthy lunch. Register by Sunday, May 7 by calling Linda Hansen at 616-984-5557 or mailing her at 13680 Sprague St., Gowen 49326, or by emailing linda13680@sbcglobal.net. #17

The Community Building Development Team installed a new clock tower at the corner of Main and Maple Streets this week, a perfect accent to the new Cedar Springs Community Library.

According to CBDT president Kurt Mabie, Dale Larson, of North Kent Mechanical, made and donated the clock tower, which would have cost the CBDT thousands of dollars to purchase. The dark red paint perfectly matches the accent on the new library, as well as the Cedar Springs Brewing Company across the street.

Jerry Gebhardt, also of North Kent Mechanical, oversaw the design and building of the tower, which is 20 feet high.

Mabie said the current clock faces are only temporary, and they are working with the American Legion to get other faces that may honor veterans.

A new clock tower was installed this week on the northwest corner of Main and W. Maple St.Post photo by J. Reed.

The American Legion Post #287 gave a check for $500.00 to the Cedar Springs Community Food Pantry in January as part of the Legion Service program. The Food Pantry offers groceries and personal care items for the needy members of our area. Pictured are Gordon Frost, Post Chaplain, Bill Yuncker, Post Commander, Steve Lindeman, former pastor of the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, where the Pantry is located, and Paul Schrier, Post Finance Officer.

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Dinner at the Legion

Apr. 3: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Pork Chop dinner on Monday, April 3rd from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be pork chops, mashed potatoes & gravy, veggies, salad, roll, drink and dessert. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160. #13p

God’s Kitchen in Cedar Springs

Apr. 4,11,18,25: Join us for dinner every Tuesday. God’s Kitchen – Cedar Springs welcomes families from Northern Kent County and the surrounding area to a Tuesday Evening Meal. No charge – no registration required! Served from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at the St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. For more information, call the Church office at 616-696-3904. #13

Anatomy – The Human Body @ KDL

Apr. 8: Learn how the human body works through STEAM based activities. Create models to learn how your circulatory system, skeleton and lungs function. Discover what the inside of your body looks like using a human torso model and make your own brain hat to take home. For ages 6 and older. Saturday, April 8th at 10:30 am, Nelson Twp. / Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #13

Honeybees: Pollinators, Stinging Insects and Honey Makers

Apr. 10: Come learn about honeybees and their amazing abilities with Donald Rewa, seasoned beekeeper of 20 years. Followed by Q&A. For adults. Monday, April 10th at 6:30 pm, Nelson Twp. / Sand Lake KDL Branch, 88 Eighth St. #13

Kent District Library Sixth Annual Writers Conference

The sixth annual event features Michigan authors and publishing insiders sharing their experiences with new and aspiring authors on topics such as the current book market, dealing with publishers and rejection, social media and more. Snacks and a light lunch will be provided. All genres and skill levels are welcome. For adults. Pre-registration is required. Saturday, April 22, 9:00 am to 2:30 pm – Cascade Township KDL Branch. Visit www.kdl.org for more information. 616-784-2007. #13

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Explore MCC’s Kenneth J. Lehman Nature Trails

Montcalm Community College’s Kenneth J. Lehman Nature Trails are open to the public from dawn until dusk, 365 days a year. There is no charge to visit these beautiful trails winding through forests, grasslands and wetlands. More than four miles of trails are marked with numbered trail posts and maps are available at most major trail heads. For more information, please email naturetrails@montcalm.edu or call MCC Biology Instructor Heather Wesp (989) 328-1270. #11

Rockford Reformed Church Garage Sale

Mar. 18: The annual Church Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, March 18th from 9 am to 3 pm at Rockford Reformed Church located at 4890 – 11 Mile Rd., Rockford. Proceeds will go towards the youth ministries summer trips. For more information, call Deb Coon 616-866-4829. #11p

Dinner at the Legion

Mar. 20: American Legion, 80 S. Main St. Cedar Springs, is hosting a Roast Beef and Onions dinner on Monday, March 20th, from 5 – 7 pm. Included will be roast beef, mashed potatoes & gravy, veggies, salad, roll, drink and dessert. The cost is $9 for adults, children (15 and younger) $4.00. Come and enjoy home cooking. Take out is available. 616-696-9160. #11

Blood Drive

Mar. 21:This has been a busy week to remember to do certain things: turn our clocks back and wear green Friday. But next week your top priority is to remember to donate blood. The need is great; the cost is free; time commitment is less than an hour and the reward is gratifying. Michigan Blood Drive is on March 21st. at the Cedar Springs Methodist Church from 12:30 pm until 7:00 pm. Help to save lives. The Blood Center thanks all the people that attempt to donate. #11

Anatomy – The Human Body at KDL

Mar. 23: Learn how the human body works through STEAM based activities. Create models to learn how your circulatory system, skeleton and lungs function. Discover what the inside of your body looks like using a human torso model and make your own brain hat to take home. For ages 6 and older. Thursday, March 23rd at 6:30 pm, Spencer Township KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler Ave. Gowen.

Players perform at the Kent “Zombies, Werewolves and Aliens, oh my!”

Mar. 24-26: The Cedar Springs Community Players will be presenting three Sci-Fi Fantasy comedy one-act plays on March 24, 25, and 26 at the Kent Theatre. “Zombies, Werewolves and Aliens, oh my!” kicks off the 2017 fantasy-themed season. The three short comedies are set in the Old West, modern-day suburbia, and outer space in the future and feature hilarious encounters with an assortment of monsters and aliens. March 24th & 25th at 7:30 p.m. – March 26th at 2:00 p.m. Advance tickets $10 at the Cedar Springs Library. At the Kent Theatre – $12 at the door, $8 under 18. #11,12p

The Courtland Fire Department was one of the fire departments honored at the American Legion dinner.

The evening of February 20 was set aside at the American Legion Post in Cedar Springs as a time to honor the First Responders of the community. A wonderful Swiss steak meal was provided for our local heroes for their sacrifices, contributions and dedication to public service.